What is the impact of using AI in 5G networks
To deliver an increase in capacity and throughput with a reduction in latency, 5G networks operate at frequencies up to 71 GHz. Trees and other foliage are great for the environment but not so good for RF energy propagation, particularly mmWave frequencies. To compound things, the density of vegetation and the level of attenuation it presents, changes with the seasons.
Artificial intelligence (AI) technologies can significantly improve performance and user experiences.
A National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) study looked at the impact trees have on RF signals. The results were reported in January 2022 and concluded: “For one type of leafy tree, the European nettle, the average attenuation in summer was 27.1 dB, but it relaxed to 22.2 dB in winter when the tree was bare. Evergreens blocked more of the signal. Their average attenuation was 35.3 dB, a number that did not change with the season.” The 5 dB difference in attenuation caused by deciduous trees means the transmitter needs to emit over three times more power in the summer than in the winter.
Natural greenery impacts a 5G signal
A NIST study looked at the effects of trees on millimeter waves, which are used in 5G networks.
This single example illustrates the complexity 5G network planners are facing globally with the role-out of 5G networks. A vast number of terrain-related data points need to be factored in to ensure reliable communications throughout the seasons. The alternative is to over-specify the output power of base stations. That approach would not only increase initial costs (CAPEX) but also result in greater energy consumption and increased operating expenditure (OPEX).
How can AI help?
AI gathers, categorizes, groups and analyzes data, identifying patterns in the data and making decisions about how to respond. AI systems learn as they go, like humans. The scale of situations AI can respond to, and the speed at which it can do so, makes AI a powerful and useful assistant.
5G cellular radio systems generate far more data than previous networks, due to greater technological diversity and complexity. Terrain modeling exemplifies how AI can help. The benefit of AI is already pervading every facet of telecom network design, implementation, operations and maintenance. This extends all the way to what the analyst McKinsey calls the self-healing customer experience. There are several other ways in which AI is already proving its value.
Using AI in 5G for dynamic allocation
The data available within a 5G network provides insights on performance, user behavior and environmental factors. AI algorithms can use this information to suggest optimizing network resources. This includes dynamically allocating bandwidth and resolving bottlenecks. AI can help ensure better overall performance and improve the user experience.
AI for predictive maintenance
As in many other industry sectors, AI can be employed to predict and detect potential network faults and failures proactively. This enables network operators to take preventative actions and conduct maintenance before issues arise. Preventative maintenance is reducing downtime and enhancing network reliability.
Network resource management
5G networks require efficient management of various resources like spectrum, energy and computing power. AI can enable intelligent resource allocation and distribution based on real-time demand, traffic patterns, and usage trends. This is leading to more efficient use of network resources and improved energy efficiency.
Can AI improve 5G network security?
AI can help detect and respond to security threats in real time. Using the vast amount of data generated by 5G networks, AI-powered security systems can identify anomalies and potential attacks quickly. These measures are protecting sensitive user information and network infrastructure.
AI in 5G dynamic network slicing
5G can support network slicing. Slicing involves isolating portions of the network and customizing it for specific use cases. AI can play a role in dynamically managing and optimizing these network slices based on the applications and services they are running. Close and responsive management ensures each slice can access the performance and resources it needs. AI analysis of customer behavior can even enable intent-based optimization of network slices.
Wider network analysis and planning
AI-driven analytics can help gain insights from massive data generated by an operator’s entire 5G network. This data can be used to improve network planning, traffic management, and improve the business intelligence network operators rely on.
AI and the 5G user experience
AI can analyze user behavior patterns, preferences, and context to personalize services and deliver a better user experience. It can optimize content delivery, prioritize applications and dynamically adjust service quality based on user needs. For example, AI can improve billing services by automatically applying the optimal roaming packages when customers travel abroad, reducing customer queries and complaints and enhancing the brand perceptions of the mobile operator.
How AI will shape 5G networks
In addition to enabling more efficient and effective network design, AI in 5G cuts CAPEX and OPEX while delivering many benefits.
Conclusion
Overall, the integration of AI with 5G networks has the potential to significantly improve network performance, efficiency, security and user experience. Of course, it also brings challenges such as privacy concerns, ethical considerations, and the need for robust governance and regulation to ensure responsible deployment. But the business case for deploying AI in 5G networks can be summarized as lowering costs and keeping customers happy.
About Author
Avnet Staff
We use Avnet Staff as a collective byline when our team of editors and writers collaborate on the co...
silica content library/articles/what-is-the-impact-of-using-ai-in-5g-networks
What is the impact of using AI in 5G networks | Avnet Silica
